The Forest Products Association of Canada believes the future for the industry is bright.
President and CEO Derek Nighbor says demand is high right now.
“Our pulp mills are really producing. That’s really, really important. But we’re going to need some stimulus and some additional supports to keep our mills competitive.”
Nighbor stresses in order for the sector to really take off, more government help will be required.
“How can we make sure our mills are getting the support they need to be efficient and innovative and ready for tomorrow’s market. So that’s our hope for the mill in Dryden and mills across the country. That we can work with the federal and provincial governments to continue to improve these mills right into the long haul.”
Nighbor notes they are fortunate to have a great working relationship with both levels of senior government.
He adds “I don’t think our forest sector has ever been so high profile. I’ve been doing media interviews with CBS in Los Angeles on this issue. So people are really interested in our products.”
Nighbor concludes by saying “As we look to 2021 and beyond, Canada’s forest products sector has the opportunity to be one of the bright lights in the Canadian recovery, especially for northern and rural communities.”
